Tiffin income tax levy loses

November 7, 2012

Citizens of Tiffin voted down the city income tax levy by an unofficial count of 3,719-3,172.

As a result of the levy failing, the city is expected to see cuts in police, fire, street, parks and sewer maintenance departments, according to a proposed budget presented to city council recently.

"The voters have spoken and we are going to go forth with the budget that was presented at the last council meeting that shows substantial cuts, close to $1 million from different departments," Mayor Aaron Montz said. "We'll go into next year with those cuts made and I guess the voters have spoken and we're going to have to live with their decision."

City Administrator Deb Reamer said while the income tax failure was not expected, she has faith that the city will still do its best.

"We fight hard for the city and the people we serve, and what we do for them," Reamer said. "I know in my position that we do the best. I'm very proud to work for my city, and the people I work for - I have 18,000 bosses. We'll serve the best we can, but they can't expect miracles. We'll do the best we can with what we have. There's only so much funding, we have no control over that funding, it was given to us with no choice in the matter."

Fire Chief Bill Ennis said while he is unsure how the fire station is going to staff all of its runs, they're still going to do their best to keep the city safe.

The fire department is expected to lose $303,003 in funding in 2013, while the police department is expected to lose $263,396 according to the proposed budget.

"I'm still proud of our city and the people we serve," Reamer said. "And we'll continue to do so. You can't beat us down."